Wooden miniatures of ancient buildings in Xi’an

As UNESCO names additional World-Heritage sites in China, one artisan is safeguarding the nation’s architectural legacy through his wooden miniatures. An exhibition of his work has opened in Xi’an, capital of Shaanxi province.

These are the creations of master Ding Wuming, a living exponent of this national intangible cultural heritage. Born in a carpenter family, Ding began to learn woodworking from the age of 17. He has his own studio where he and his apprentices have created nearly a hundred of these miniature ancient buildings. The exhibition runs until the end of this year.